Lead the Future of Sealift Operations at the Maritime Administration
The Maritime Administration (MARAD), an agency under the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), is currently hiring for a Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist (GS-14) in Washington, D.C. This critical position serves as the backbone of our nation’s emergency response capabilities, overseeing the National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) and the Ready Reserve Force (RRF).
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist, you will:
- Contract Management: Oversee the contracting process, from drafting Statements of Work to final award and contract administration.
- Fleet Operations: Maintain and manage layberthing operations, ensuring the readiness of the NDRF and RRF.
- Leadership: Supervise personnel, manage budgets, and provide technical guidance on complex maritime logistics.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Prepare high-level briefings for stakeholders, including Department of Defense officials and shipping industry partners.
Comparison: Standard Transportation Roles vs. This Specialized Position
| Feature | Standard Specialist | Supervisory Sealift Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | General Logistics | National Defense/Sealift |
| Leadership | Individual Contributor | Supervisory/Management |
| Focus | Routine Procurement | Strategic Readiness/RRF |
| Impact | Local/Regional | National Security |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Meet the Individual Occupational Requirement (IOR) for the series.
- Successfully complete a pre-employment drug test and background investigation.
- Obtain a Secret security clearance.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $143,913 to $187,093 annually. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including top-tier health insurance, a generous pension plan, paid leave, and transit assistance.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Be Quantitative: Clearly list the hours worked per week for every position.
- Document Everything: Ensure your SF-50s verify your current grade and time-in-grade eligibility.
- Check Status: Use the USAJobs portal to track your progress after submission.
If you have a background in maritime contracting, fleet operations, or transportation management and a desire to contribute to national security, we encourage you to apply. Join the Maritime Administration today and build a legacy of service.
Why This Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees) Job Matters
Take the helm of our nation's sealift capabilities and lead critical maritime operations at the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees) Job Overview
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is seeking a strategic leader to join the Division of Sealift Operations and Emergency Response. As a Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in the management of the National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) and the Ready Reserve Force (RRF), ensuring that our transportation infrastructure remains resilient, efficient, and mission-ready.
Requirements for Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees)
- U.S. Citizenship eligibility.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level.
- Completion of a one-year supervisory probationary period (if not already completed).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Successful completion of a pre-appointment drug test and adherence to random testing.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service if born after 12/31/1959.
- Attainment of Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) Level I certification within 18 months.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees)
- Proven history of developing ship operating costs, conducting cost estimates, and reviewing technical proposals.
- Expertise in managing the entire contracting process from requirements determination to award.
- Experience serving as a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).
- Demonstrated skill in budget formulation, cost accounting, and program efficiency reporting.
- Strong leadership capabilities, specifically in delegating work and evaluating subordinate performance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Competitive federal retirement plans (FERS).
- ✓Generous leave policies including paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Supportive work-life balance through telework eligibility.
- ✓Access to a transit subsidy program.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Transportation Operations Specialist (Open To Both U.S. Citizens And Federal Employees) Job
- Review the full announcement on USAJobs to ensure all eligibility criteria are met.
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages containing all required employment details (titles, dates, hours per week, series/grade).
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire via the application portal.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation, including SF-50s and DD214s (if applicable).
- Submit your application package before 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit; excess content will not be evaluated.
- Be specific with your employment dates and verify the average hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Ensure your SF-50s explicitly demonstrate time-in-grade eligibility if applying as a current federal employee.
- Review your application status via the USAJobs dashboard regularly after the closing date.
- Double-check that all required documents are successfully attached to your specific application submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this role?
You will provide technical and analytical support to the Division Chief, focusing on the administration and operational readiness of the National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF) and the Ready Reserve Force (RRF).
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this position involves travel, and you will be issued a government travel card for official business purposes.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This position requires a Secret security clearance and is classified as a noncritical-sensitive position.
Can I submit a longer resume?
*A: No, only the first two pages will be reviewed by the hiring panel.*
Is this position eligible for telework?
*A: Yes, this position is telework eligible.*
Job from Maritime Administration
The Department of Transportation is committed to modernizing infrastructure, enhancing safety, and fostering innovation. As one of the best places to work in the federal government, the DOT offers a collaborative, mission-driven environment where your work directly impacts the nation’s transportation efficiency.